June 22, 2019

As July 4th approaches, thoughts turn to outdoor events and of course fireworks. Make sure your Independence Day activities do not turn tragic by following some simple rules and safety guidelines.

In the City of Lee’s Summit, residents with a city permit may shoot approved fireworks on July 2 and 3 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 11 p.m., and on July 4th between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight.

Approved fireworks may be purchased within the city limits from any of the 20 approved tents which will open after June 23. In order to discharge consumer fireworks on the approved dates within the city, a “2019 Lee’s Summit Fireworks Permit” is required per household. A permit can be obtained at City Hall, one of the authorized fireworks vendors, or downloaded at cityofLS.net. The permit is free of charge and provides specific guidelines for fireworks use. Make sure fireworks purchased outside of the city are legal and you have a permit.

The City’s ordinance allows the possession and use of certain approved consumer fireworks (1.4G) within the city limits. Consumer fireworks that are NOT allowed include: rockets on a stick (bottle rockets); missiles with fins or rudders for aerodynamic flight; roman candles, and parachutes that suspend illuminated materials. Although not a firework, the use of sky lanterns is also prohibited.

Legal does not mean fireworks are safe; remember these are explosives and should be used responsibly! Before shooting fireworks, make sure you have plenty of space. Avoid areas of dry vegetation or other combustible materials and have a water hose or bucket available in case of a small fire. Keep small children and pets out of the immediate area. When you are done, dispose of waste material in a safe manner- not inside with the regular trash.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the many professional fireworks displays in the area, such as Legacy Blast on July 3 at Legacy Park in Lee’s Summit.

The most frequent fireworks complaints are people that don’t clean up afterwards and discharging onto property other than your own. Be courteous of neighbors that may not share the same enthusiasm about celebrating the holiday and clean up your mess!

For questions about the fireworks, contact the Lee’s Summit Fire Department at (816) 969-1300, or visit cityofLS.net. To report the inappropriate use, or illegal fireworks, contact the Lee’s Summit Police Department at (816) 969-7390.